Ben Stokes has expressed a strong desire to join the exclusive group of English captains who have secured the Ashes in Australia. As the first Test is set to commence in Perth, Stokes aims to lead his team in reclaiming the coveted urn for the first time since 2015. The historical context is significant, with England suffering a 13-0 record in their last three series down under.
Stokes’ Ambition for Ashes Glory
Stokes is determined to become the sixth captain to achieve this feat since World War II, hoping to emulate Sir Andrew Strauss, who led England to a 3-1 victory in 2010-11. This series holds personal significance for Stokes, as it marks his first chance to win a five-match series after a draw in the 2023 home Ashes.
Pressure and Performance
The England team is under pressure, especially facing a depleted Australian side missing key players like Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood. The inclusion of debutants Brendan Doggett and Jake Weatherald adds another layer of unpredictability to the match at Optus Stadium.
- Previous series scoreline: 13-0 in favor of Australia
- Last English captain to win in Australia: Sir Andrew Strauss (2010-11)
- Stokes’ goal: To become the second captain since Ray Illingworth to claim the Ashes
- Current squad includes: Shoaib Bashir, Mark Wood, Joe Root, Zak Crawley, Ollie Pope
Building Team Morale
Stokes has worked diligently to manage the team’s expectations, aiming to alleviate external pressures. He has emphasized the importance of acknowledging the significance of the series while remaining grounded. Stokes mentioned the need for the players to embrace the challenge ahead, recognizing the historical weight of the Ashes.
“Everyone in Australia and England knows how crucial this series is,” he remarked. Stokes believes that recognizing the moment will help the team perform better, especially for those experiencing the intensity of an Australian tour for the first time.
Stokes’ Path to Recovery
After recovering from a severe shoulder injury sustained during the fourth Test against India, Stokes has dedicated the last four months to rehabilitation. He described the recovery process as smooth, leading to his continued commitment to England cricket. He recently signed a two-year extension to his central contract, which extends through the next series in 2027.
With determination and a clear vision for success, Stokes and his squad are set to embark on a journey that could carve their names into Ashes history.
